When the ace flop checks around

this isn't costing me much i don't think, but i wonder how to make the most of this bummer situation:

i'll get a free flop with something like Q6, or i'll limp the QJ and the flop is like
AQx

and even with 4 ppl in it sometimes checks around. my habit has been to lead at the turn a bit (assuming its <Q) and be ready to fold if raised.

I'll bet the river a little stronger if i get a caller. Mostly 'cause i think a check invites opp to make a bluff i can't justifiably look up.

Anyway, I seem to be getting a lot of call-downs with the naked ace. I can't bring myself to push very hard 'cause so many ppl will call big bets with any paired A.

Starting to think I should just check these turns unimproved. I'm pretty sure this has been discussed, but I don't recall any good memorable piece of advice to get through these spots.

I like check-raising in a situation like this. You risk not getting more in the pot if you're ahead, but you don't have a strong hand anyways so who cares? A naked ace has a harder time calling a check-raise then a straight up bet, but if they call your check-raise you have reason for concern and they have reason to check behind on the river if they're also marginal.

i'll try that. others' thoughts?

bet the pot on the turn and check-call the river if there is a good chance your opponent was drawing.

Bet the pot on the flop. Then bet the pot on the turn if you get a caller and it checks to you again. Everybody folds unless they have AK/AQ, but not many people limp those. If they call the flop and the turn you are beat and then show your crappy hand on the river. Your next two monsters get paid off.

This seems to work on PP 25NL.